This creamy tomato pasta is a weeknight lifesaver, combining rich flavors with a simple, quick-cook method.
Bursting with protein from cheese and healthy fats from olive oil and butter, it’s satisfying yet approachable.
High in fiber from whole vegetables and customizable with added veggies or lean proteins, this recipe makes a delicious, wholesome meal perfect for everyday dinners or meal prep.
Creamy Tomato Pasta
Equipment
- 1 large pot (for pasta)
- 1 large skillet or sauté pan
- 1 Wooden spoon or spatula
- 1 Knife for chopping
- 1 Cutting Board
- Measuring Cups and Spoons
- Grater (for cheese)
Ingredients
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 2 tbsp butter
- 1 medium onion finely diced
- 4 garlic cloves minced
- 2 15 oz cans tomato sauce or marinara sauce
- Salt to taste
- Black pepper to taste
- Dash of sugar to taste
- 1 cup heavy cream
- Grated Parmesan or Romano cheese to taste
- Fresh basil chopped
- 1 ½ lb fettuccine
Instructions
- Prepare the Pasta: Bring a large pot of salted water to a rolling boil over high heat. Once boiling, add the fettuccine noodles and cook according to the package instructions until al dente—tender but still firm to the bite. Stir occasionally to prevent sticking. Once cooked, reserve about 1 cup of the starchy pasta water, then drain the noodles in a colander. Set both the drained pasta and the reserved water aside for later.
- Heat the Fats: In a large skillet or sauté pan, combine the olive oil and butter over medium heat.Allow the butter to melt completely and mingle with the olive oil, forming a smooth, fragrant base. This combination creates a richer flavor than using either fat alone.
- Sauté the Aromatics: Add the finely diced onion to the skillet and sauté for 2-3 minutes, stirring frequently, until the onion becomes soft and translucent. Then, add the minced garlic and cook for an additional 30-60 seconds, just until fragrant. Be careful not to let the garlic brown, as it can turn bitter. This step infuses the fat with a savory depth that will form the foundation of your sauce.
- Incorporate the Tomato Sauce: Pour the tomato sauce (or marinara) into the skillet with the sautéed aromatics. Stir to combine thoroughly, ensuring the sauce is evenly mixed with the onion and garlic. Season with a pinch of salt, black pepper, and a dash of sugar to balance the acidity of the tomatoes. Stir well to distribute the seasonings evenly.
- Simmer the Sauce: Reduce the heat to low and allow the sauce to simmer gently for 25-30 minutes. Stir occasionally to prevent sticking or scorching. During this time, the sauce will thicken, the flavors will deepen, and it will develop a rich, vibrant color. Taste periodically and adjust seasonings as needed. For a spicier version, you can add a pinch of crushed red pepper flakes at this stage.
- Add the Cream: Once the sauce has thickened and the flavors have melded, remove the skillet from the heat. Slowly stir in the heavy cream, pouring in a steady stream while stirring continuously. The cream will transform the bright red tomato sauce into a luscious, light orange-red color, giving it a silky texture and a rich, indulgent flavor.
- Mix in the Cheese: Sprinkle grated Parmesan or Romano cheese into the sauce, stirring until melted and fully incorporated.Taste the sauce and adjust seasonings if necessary. The cheese adds a savory, nutty note and enhances the creaminess while contributing protein.
- Combine Pasta and Sauce: Add the drained fettuccine noodles directly into the skillet with the sauce. Toss gently using tongs or a large spoon, ensuring every strand of pasta is thoroughly coated. If the sauce appears too thick, add a splash of the reserved pasta water a little at a time until the desired consistency is reached. This will help the sauce cling to the pasta perfectly.
- Add Fresh Herbs: Fold in the chopped fresh basil just before serving. The basil imparts a bright, aromatic freshness that balances the richness of the cream and cheese. Toss gently to distribute evenly without bruising the leaves.
- Serve and Garnish: Transfer the creamy pasta to serving bowls or a large platter. Optionally, sprinkle extra grated cheese and a few more basil leaves on top for presentation. Serve immediately while hot and enjoy a comforting, satisfying meal. This dish pairs beautifully with a simple side salad or garlic bread for a complete, well-rounded dinner.
Notes
- Use a mix of olive oil and butter to add depth and richness to the sauce.
- Reserve pasta water before draining—it helps adjust the sauce consistency perfectly.
- Simmer the sauce slowly to allow flavors to meld; don’t rush this step.
- Fresh basil added at the end enhances aroma and balances creaminess.
- Grated Parmesan or Romano cheese can be adjusted to taste; more cheese adds richness and protein.
- The recipe is versatile—feel free to add grilled chicken, shrimp, or roasted vegetables for a heartier meal.
- Taste and adjust salt, pepper, and sugar during simmering to balance acidity and flavor.
Chef’s Secrets for Perfect Pasta
Creating a luscious, creamy tomato pasta requires patience and attention to detail.
Start by gently sautéing onions and garlic until soft and fragrant, as this forms the flavor foundation.
Slowly simmering the tomato sauce allows the flavors to deepen and mellow, reducing acidity naturally.
When incorporating cream, do it off heat to avoid curdling and maintain a silky texture.
Freshly grated cheese enhances umami and creaminess, while reserved pasta water can help achieve the ideal sauce consistency.
Small touches, like folding in fresh basil just before serving, elevate the dish from simple to memorable.
Serving Suggestions for Every Occasion
This creamy tomato fettuccine is versatile and pairs beautifully with a variety of sides.
Serve it alongside a crisp green salad with a light vinaigrette for a balanced meal.
Garlic bread or warm, crusty baguette complements the rich sauce perfectly.
For heartier options, top the pasta with grilled chicken, sautéed shrimp, or roasted vegetables.
Garnish with extra grated cheese and fresh basil for an eye-catching presentation.
Whether for weeknight dinners, family gatherings, or meal prep, this dish delivers comforting, restaurant-quality flavor with minimal effort.
Storage Tips to Preserve Freshness
Store any leftover pasta in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
To prevent the sauce from thickening excessively, add a splash of milk or reserved pasta water when reheating over low heat.
This helps restore the creamy texture.
For longer storage, the cooked pasta and sauce can be frozen separately for up to 2 months.
Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating gently on the stovetop, stirring frequently to prevent sticking and maintain the sauce’s smooth consistency.
Frequently Asked Questions
1. Can I use a different pasta shape?
Absolutely! While fettuccine works best for coating with the creamy sauce, penne, linguine, or spaghetti are excellent alternatives.
Choose a pasta that holds sauce well.
2. Can I make this recipe dairy-free?
Yes! Substitute butter with olive oil and replace heavy cream with coconut cream or a plant-based cream.
Use vegan cheese for similar richness and protein content.
3. How can I make the sauce spicier?
Add a pinch of crushed red pepper flakes or a dash of hot paprika during the simmering stage.
Start small and adjust gradually to reach your preferred heat level.
4. Can I prepare this recipe ahead of time?
You can prepare the sauce a day in advance and store it in the refrigerator.
When ready to serve, reheat gently and toss with freshly cooked pasta. Adding fresh basil at the end keeps the flavors vibrant.
5. How do I prevent the sauce from being too thick or too thin?
If the sauce is too thick, stir in reserved pasta water or a splash of milk to reach desired consistency.
If too thin, simmer over low heat longer, stirring occasionally until it thickens.
